WHAT MAKES A STRONG EXHIBITION APPLICATION?

When applying to exhibit, cohension is key. A cohesive series of works is stronger than a mixture of unrelated pieces. Cohesive artworks, connected by style, subject matter, and/or an underlying theme makes a stronger collection. This will ensure your exhibition presents a cohesive viewpoint, and will allow audiences to better engage with your exhibition. If you practice is eclectic, select artworks that together form a cohesive collection and present them within your application.

DO ALL MY ARTWORKS NEED TO COMPLETED BEFORE I APPLY?

No. While we love seeing all the works completed, we understand that often exhibitions will be booked long in advance. This long lead time is often used by artists to complete their pieces in the knowledge they have an exhibition outcome locked in. You will, however, either need some of the collection complete and presented within your application, or a selection of indicative pieces, allowing our curatorial team to get a sense of what your expected outcome will be. This will allow us to decide if the application will be accepted and where best to place the proposed exhibition within our schedule ensuring it the greatest chance of success.

HOW DO I APPLY TO EXHIBIT WITH BSG?

You can click the Exhibit link in our main menu to find the exact specifications for your application. Here you will be guided through the process.

HOW DO I KNOW HOW MANY ARTWORKS TO INCLUDE IN AN EXHIBITION?

One of the most common mistakes we encounter is artists trying to fit too many artworks into an exhibition. It is vital that you think of the whole collection and how it is viewed by an audience. You may love every piece in your collection, but it may overwhelm the viewer, resulting in them not connecting with your exhibition as you intend. Talking to industry peers, fellow artists and friends and getting their feedback is a great way to help gain an insight into how others view your work. Editing artworks is essential to create a stronger body of work, create more impact with the audience, as well as build your reputation.

IS IT ESSENTIAL TO FRAME MY ARTWORK?

The short answer is no, but good framing can compliment your artwork, maintain its archival nature and increase its saleability. In contrast, the wrong choice of framing or choice of poor materials can degrade an artwork, reduce its archival impact and add additional costs to the collector at purchase.

HOW WOULD YOU RECOMMEND I FRAME MY ARTWORK?

Presentation of your artworks is important, not just for its visual appeal but for its archival longevity. In this regard, a low quality frame can degrade an artwork. Low quality frames can include ready made frames, or low quality framers that use cheap and non-archival materials such as plastic or laminate. We would recommend if you intend to frame your artwork, to use a professional framer and ensure the frame, and all glass, papers and glues are archival quality.

Ideally frame your work in a simple frame that won’t distract from the artwork, sticking to neutral or natural materials stained or natural timbers. Of course, there are always exceptions to this rule of thumb, such as when the frame is part of the conceptual idea or the frame is an extension of the artwork and compliments is aesthetic or concept – where a coloured frame or mount will enhance the work within it.

WHAT IF I DON'T WANT TO FRAME MY ARTWORK?

While desirable, framing is not always required, though general rule is no frame is better than a low quality frame. Works on paper can be installed using hidden hinged tabs or magnets, and stretched paintings can be hung without a frame wherre needed.

WHAT SHOULD I CONSIDER WHEN PRICING MY ARTWORK?

There are many considerations when pricing your artwork, especially if you are an emerging artist without a history of sales. Some things to consider are:

• Production costs
• Time taken to create the work
• Framing expenses
• Where you are in your career

While covering your production costs are important, it is essential to price your work appropriately in relation to your career trajectory and the current demand for your artwork. Over time, and as you build your loyal collector base through regular exhibitions, your artwork can increase in price. We would recommend gradually increasing the price of your artwork over time, in keeping with collector demand and covetability of your work for example, increasing your prices after a successful exhibition or a high sales period.

Your artworks should never be perceived as going down in value. Reducing your pricing, such as through studio or flash sales, or selling your artwork at a significantly reduced price publicly or while it is still available for purchase through other vendors can in turn devalue your entire collection and negatively impact future sales.

HOW DO I SAFELY TRANSPORT OR SHIP MY ARTWORK?

While there are many courier services, it is essential to use a reputable company. Some couriers specialise in artwork transport, and can even pack your artwork if needed. Some couriers can insure your artwork. Always contact the art shipping company to make sure they will insure your artwork before delivering it. 

HOW DO I INSURE MY ARTWORK?

While it is not essential to ensure all artwork, if you chose to make sure the policy specifically covers artwork.
We would recommend the National Association of Visual Artists (NAVA) for advice on insurance and Craft Victoria for supplying craft-based practices. While there are more insurers out there, this is a good place to start.